Indian Army Sparks Controversy by Denying Military Funeral for Soldier’s Suicide
In a move that has ignited a heated debate, the Indian Army has recently denied a military funeral for a soldier who died by suicide. The soldier, Amritpal Singh, tragically took his own life while on sentry duty in the Poonch sector on October 11. The army cited a longstanding policy that suicides or self-inflicted injuries are not entitled to military funerals, which has raised questions about the treatment of soldiers who die under such circumstances.
According to official statistics, an average of 100 to 140 soldiers have lost their lives each year since 2001 as a result of suicides or self-inflicted injuries. In all these cases, the military funerals were not accorded as per the army’s order from 1967. The army emphasized that while they do pay deep respect and extend empathy to the families in these unfortunate instances, they are bound by the existing policy.
In response to this controversy, the army clarified that the disbursement of financial assistance and relief, along with immediate financial support for conducting funerals, is given top priority. However, they stood firm on their decision to not grant military funerals in cases of suicide or self-inflicted injuries.
The death of Amritpal Singh has undoubtedly been a tragedy for his family, as well as for the Indian Army. The army acknowledged that there have been misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the facts surrounding his death. They called upon society to uphold the respect, privacy, and dignity of the grieving family during these difficult times.
It is worth noting that the army does not differentiate between soldiers who joined prior to or after the implementation of the Agnipath Scheme in terms of entitled benefits and protocols. Regardless of entry type, soldiers are treated equally in accordance with existing practices.
Following the completion of the necessary medico-legal procedures, the mortal remains of Amritpal Singh were transported to his native place for the last rites under army arrangements and with an escort party. The army reaffirmed its commitment to adhering to policies and protocols, and requested support from all sections of society in this regard.
The decision of the Indian Army to deny a military funeral to a soldier who died by suicide has sparked a contentious debate. Critics argue that every soldier who loses their life in service to the nation should be accorded the honor of a military funeral, regardless of the cause of death. They assert that such a distinction undermines the sacrifices made by these individuals and sends a negative message to the armed forces.
On the other hand, some defend the army’s policy, stating that suicide is a sensitive and complex issue that requires a different approach. They argue that granting military funerals in such cases may inadvertently glamorize or romanticize suicide, potentially leading to a rise in such incidents among soldiers. They believe that the existing policy is in place to discourage self-inflicted harm and to protect the reputation of the armed forces.
As the public debates the Indian Army’s decision, it is important to consider the impact on the grieving families and the armed forces as a whole. Ultimately, finding a balance between honoring the fallen soldiers and addressing the complex issue of suicide among the armed forces is crucial. The army’s request for support in upholding their established protocols reflects the need for a respectful and empathetic approach to this sensitive matter.
